He was born in Amsterdam and his career started with Haarlem before moving to Feyenoord and then PSV Eindhoven. He was taken to Italy by Silvio Berlusconi, who paid the then record fee of £6 million for him.
He failed to convert his on-field magic to off-field management with any lasting success. As player-manager, Gullit took Chelsea to the F.A. Cup Final in his first post, but was released soon after. Appointed to manage Newcastle United where a contretemps with star striker and local hero Alan Shearer did his survival prospects no favours. Popular opinion considers that he resigned as manager before he was pushed. He has since retired to occasional football punditry.
He had dreadlocks, but currently not.
He will be managing the Feyenoord squad starting season 2004/2005.